Gypsophila paniculata Snowflake

Gypsophila paniculata 'Snowflake' is a stronger branching selection of paniculate baby's breath with generous double flowering. Throughout summer, it forms a mass of white flowers resembling snowflakes. Its extraordinary lightness makes this semi-woody perennial plant suitable for heavier perennial beds, in light and well-exposed soil. It requires little care, remains attractive throughout the summer, and can be used to create charming dry or fresh bouquets.

Gypsophila paniculata 'Snowflake' belongs to the Caryophyllaceae family, just like carnations. It is a double-flowered form of paniculate baby's breath, native to Europe and temperate Asia. The plant forms a bushy, highly branched, and round clump, reaching an average size of 90cm (35in) in all directions. Often treated as an annual, it is a hardy plant in well-drained soil, but with a short lifespan. Its flowering is long, occurring from June to September. It is covered with a multitude of tiny double flowers, about 1cm (0.4in) in diameter, grouped in dense and cloudy panicles. The foliage is deciduous. It consists of linear, thin, and glabrous leaves, about 7cm (3in) long, with a bluish-green colour. The base is woody, and the root system consists of fleshy and fragile rhizomes.

'Snowflake' brings lightness to every bed and bouquet where it is present. Its combination with the opulent flowers of tree peonies is absolutely perfect. This plant requires very little maintenance and is satisfied with little: rich and well-drained soil, even somewhat dry, will suffice. It will be beautiful among salvias, oriental poppies, garden irises, echinaceas, and tall thistles. In bouquets as well as in the garden, it is an ideal companion for old or modern roses.